The Independent Battery Distributors Association has warned of further increases in battery prices due to significant rises in material costs.

Battery makers have seen dramatic increases in lead prices due to growing demand, particularly in China and eastern Europe.

Godfrey Ferris, IBDA secretary, said manufacturers also face escalating prices of battery acid and Polypropolene used for battery cases.

Scrap value for old batteries

The IBDA advises distributors and retailers to stock up now, to avoid inevitable increases.

It also points out that retailers can capitalise on scrap values by returning old batteries through their battery supplier.